GARDEN DESIGN that’ s through touch, smell, sound or sight – for example for those who’ re visually impaired, we want them to walk over the surface and feel something different.
“ Landscapers need to think about using materials that are unique and allow visually impaired people to detect the type of surface underfoot. Welsh Slate might be smoother, but its subtle texture and feel make it ideal for sensory spaces – safe, tactile, and full of character.
“ For an area to be more accessible, landscapers might consider using a self-binding gravel like Breedon Golden Amber gravel – which allows people to manoeuvre wheelchairs more effectively.”
Wilson continues“ We’ re seeing more organisations doing sensory audits on public and commercial spaces. It’ s about designing for everyone- from gradients and path widths to the surface material.”
He adds that there’ s lots to consider when assessing whether a garden is accessible:“ Different disabilities will have different criteria they have to meet. For people with wheelchairs, for example, you’ ll have to consider the width of the path, the steepness of the gradient, and even the type of hard landscaping products being used.
Wilson says it’ s not just accessibility that’ s shaping garden design in 2025. More landscapers are increasingly prioritising the use of Britishsourced materials. He said:“ Britain produces so many great quality products now, and that’ s becoming the starting point when building. Think about where your materials are coming from – and then create a design around that.”
For more information, including how Breedon is continuing to
Make a Material Difference visit www. breedongroup. com / sustainability
Follow us @ ludmagazine www. landud. co. uk 31